TikTok is one of the fastest-growing and most popular social media apps among not only GenZ and Millenials but also older adults. It’s fast-paced, quick, and entertaining. But in November of 2022, I was starting to see some real downsides. I preferred scrolling on TikTok over doing homework and spending time with friends, and I used it as a time-killer that would waste several hours of my day.
So, in January of the new year, I pledged to go a month without TikTok. Here I am, two months later, and I have not gone on the app since. Here’s what I did, and here are a few ways to stay off TikTok.
Realizing What’s Wrong With Tiktok
While there’s a lot of debate on GenZ’s use of social media, this article is not an attempt to bash anyone for using TikTok or social media. It is simply my experience with deleting and staying off TikTok and a guide if you want to follow it.
With November approaching, I realized how much time I had spent on the app. Not only that, but I wasn’t getting anything fruitful out of it. TikTok was a way to feel less lonely, especially during the holiday breaks when I returned home. I would see other people with the same interests having fun and making the most of life — day in the lives, funny videos, cooking content, and relatable videos consumed by feed. While I enjoyed watching these videos, it ultimately came down to time and a negative response to the app.
I spent hours upon hours on TikTok just scrolling. The app’s unlimited video content specifically tailored to your liking is what makes TikTok so addicting.
For me, quitting TikTok cold turkey worked best. On top of that, I made it one of my 2023 New Year’s goals. Because of this, I could refer back to my goal and redirect myself in case I felt like redownloading the app again.
However, this process might not work for everyone. Here are other ways you can stay off TikTok.
Set A Time Limit
Although a time limit didn’t work for me, it could work for you! All you have to do is go into your settings and set a one, two, or three-hour limit for TikTok. You can do this with any app or your whole phone at the end of the day if you want to stop using it at a certain time.
Distract Yourself
When I was truly bored, TikTok would be a quick remedy. However, after deleting the app, I wanted to re-download it and get back to scrolling.
To remedy this, first, get off your phone. Set it down, and look around your room to find something else to do. Do homework, call a friend, or participate in a random hobby. Whether that hobby is simple as reading a book, learning a language, journaling, cooking, or drawing, doing something fun can force your brain to relearn to want to participate in a hobby rather than spending time on TikTok.
Remember Your Goals
As corny as it sounds, remembering why you are doing something is a great way to get back on track. Whether it’s time, an unhealthy relationship with the app, or simply not liking TikTok anymore, remembering why you began something can help you continue.